Raising the Bar

SAVOR GLOBALLY INSPIRED CUISINE ABOARD OCEANIA CRUISES .

BY AMY ROBERTS

OCEANIA CRUISES IS RECOGNIZED ACROSS THE INDUSTRY FOR TWO THINGS: APPROACHABLE LUXURY AND CULINARY EXPERIENCES THAT WOULD MAKE EVEN MARTHA STEWART BLUSH WITH PRIDE.

The cruise line’s seven ships are intimate upscale enclaves and offer a high-class experience without being haughty. Another defining feature of Oceania Cruises is the focus on food. Never an afterthought, food is emphasized on each excursion — gourmet cooking classes, custom culinary tour shore excursions, and exclusive experiences to coveted restaurants — are all part of the itinerary.

So perhaps it’s no surprise Oceania Cruises now plans to pair its distinctive culinary considerations with an immersive mixology program that really raises the bar.

The new spirits concept will feature a Moët and Chandon champagne experience, the latest cocktailcrafting trends including flavored smoke bubbles, savory zero-proof cocktails, wooden-barrel aged Negronis, and specialty beverage carts like the Bubbly Bar and Ultimate Bloody Mary Bar. These toast-worthy options will debut in May on Oceania Cruises’ newest ship, Vista , which also celebrates her inaugural season this spring.

As Oceania Cruises’ newest ship, Vista sets high standards for comfort and residential-style luxury with allveranda accommodations. Stunningly appointed bathrooms with oversized showers, vanities, and storage space are a standard amenity, as are sumptuous furnishings, plush linens, tasteful artwork, and timeless décor.

An Intoxicating Experience

On Vista , “having a drink” will be an experience unto itself, with skilled bartenders smoking an old fashioned at your table or meticulously grinding espresso beans by hand to make the perfect espresso martini. Naturally sourced ingredients, homemade syrups, and local garnishes can all be expected as well.

Experiential beverage offerings will include The Bubbly Bar, where passengers can order delightful champagne cocktails and The Ultimate Bloody Mary Bar, where guests can hand select their edible embellishments.

Additional immersive mixology experiences include:

THE CASINO MIXOLOGY BAR is laserfocused on the art of the cocktail, dedicated to both performance and palate. Expect Instagram-worthy tableside preparation along with a unique selection of bourbons and ryes for the readymade Negronis that flow from the wooden barrel they were aged in. A “flavor blaster” device tops cocktails with vapor filled bubbles and aromatic clouds.

MARTINIS is often the origin of an extraordinary evening; the bar’s sophisticated vibe and glamorous design are likely to leave passengers both shaken and stirred. Martini’s convivial gathering spaces are nestled among walls of shimmering glass while custom sculptural lighting casts a warm glow over patrons. The bar’s namesake cocktails are made with handcrafted and ethically sourced Mermaid gin and vodka.

BARISTAS has long been a favorite – if not a necessary – morning routine for passengers in need of a caffeine fix. This treasured coffee shop turned cocktail stop will stay true to its Italian roots, offering passengers innovative cocktails made with Italian liqueurs and the country’s best-known mixers: Crodino, San Pellegrino, and Campari sodas. Don’t be surprised to hear a chorus of “Salute!” with each order.

Perfectly Paired

Passengers can blend their cocktail and culinary affairs by reserving exclusive pairing experiences designed to exquisitely complement the flavors, aromas, and tastes of both dish and drink. The Moët Culinary Cruising. Get a further taste for Oceania Cruises by entering OFFER M24990 on the website found on the back cover.

From top: Bathroom with a view from the Owners Suite; happy hour at Martinis. Opposite: Vista navigates Baltic Norway.

and Chandon Champagne Experience is a delectable three-course pairing extravaganza featuring rare vintages. Five unique Mediterranean influenced dishes are coupled with a premium range of wines during the Connoisseur Wine Pairing Lunch. And for the true gourmands, the Dom Pé rignon Experience is a six-course tasting menu complemented by three champagne vintages hand selected for their playful and subtle effervescence. Diners are guaranteed a lively and unforgettable meal.